These No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Energy Balls are a tasty snack that captures the flavor of pumpkin pie! Made with oats, pumpkin puree, and warm spices, they’re both nutritious and sweet!
You can whip these up in no time, no oven needed! I love popping them in my lunchbox for a quick energy boost. Who knew being healthy could taste so good? 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: They provide fiber and help bind the energy balls. If you prefer a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats of the same variety can also work in a pinch!
Nut Butter: Almond or peanut butter gives creaminess and flavor. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seed butter or tahini make great alternatives. Keep in mind that each nut butter has a unique taste.
Pumpkin Puree: Fresh or canned works well, but make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugar. If you can’t find pumpkin, you can use sweet potato puree as a substitute!
Honey or Maple Syrup: These sweeteners add flavor and moisture. For a vegan option, stick with maple syrup, or use agave nectar. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking as well.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: This is a comforting blend of spices! If you don’t have it on hand, mix cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in equal parts to create a similar flavor profile.
How Do You Make Sure the Dough Sticks Together?
Getting the right consistency is crucial for rolling your energy balls. The mixture should be sticky but not too wet. Follow these steps to achieve a great dough:
- Mix dry ingredients thoroughly before adding the wet ones; this ensures even distribution.
- When combined, if it seems too crumbly, add a bit more nut butter or honey to bring it together.
- Refrigerating the mixture for 15-20 minutes helps firm it up and makes rolling easier. Just don’t skip this step!
- Test the mixture by rolling a small amount in your palm; it should hold together without falling apart.
With these tips, you’ll be rolling perfect energy balls every time! Enjoy the process and the delicious bites ahead!
No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Energy Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond or peanut butter (natural, unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts or seeds (e.g., walnuts, pecans, or chia seeds)
- Optional for drizzle: 1/4 cup powdered sugar mixed with 1-2 teaspoons almond milk or any milk to make glaze
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep time, plus an extra 45-50 minutes to chill the energy balls properly. This includes about 15-20 minutes of initial chilling before rolling, and then another 30 minutes after shaping. Perfect for a quick and delicious snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, start by adding the rolled oats, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Give it a good mix until everything is evenly distributed. This helps to ensure each bite is packed with flavor!
2. Adding the Wet Ingredients:
Next, it’s time to add in the almond or peanut butter, pumpkin puree, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture well until all the ingredients come together into a sticky dough. If you’re including nuts or seeds, fold them into the mixture now.
3. Chilling the Mixture:
Once everything is combined, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. Chilling the mixture makes it easier to roll into balls without sticking to your hands.
4. Rolling the Energy Balls:
After chilling, take the mixture out and roll it into 1-inch balls using your hands. Place each ball on a parchment-lined plate or tray. This step is where you see your hard work turn into delicious energy bites!
5. Optional Glaze and Garnish:
If you want to add a little extra flair, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar with milk until it’s smooth. Drizzle it over your energy balls with a spoon or a piping bag. For an added touch, sprinkle a bit more pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon on top!
6. Final Chill:
Cover the energy balls and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes more to set. This will help them firm up nicely.
7. Storage:
Once they’re ready, enjoy them right away or store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to one week—if they last that long!
Enjoy these flavorful pumpkin pie energy balls as a nutritious, delicious, and easy-to-make snack! They make the perfect pick-me-up any time of day!
Can I Use Other Nut Butters in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While almond and peanut butter are popular choices, you can use any nut or seed butter you prefer, such as sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. Just remember that the flavor may change slightly depending on the type you use.
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins?
Definitely! Feel free to add extras like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or shredded coconut to customize your energy balls. Just keep in mind that the total volume might affect the binding, so adjust the nut butter or sweetener slightly if needed!
How Do I Make Them Vegan?
Making these energy balls vegan is simple! Just substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. The rest of the ingredients are already plant-based!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just wrap them individually and keep them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months!
